Money to update spa's image

This building could get a facelift with the regeneration money

The fading fortunes of a Victorian spa town look set to be revived under a million pound regeneration strategy.

At the start of the 20th century more than 80,000 people a year flocked to take the invigorating spa waters of Llandrindod Wells in Powys.

But, in recent years, a lack of inward investment has resulted in many of the buildings in the town centre becoming run down.

A £675,000 grant to help restore some of Llandrindod Wells' historic buildings now aims to develop it as a modern health and beauty spa

The money awarded by The Heritage Lottery Fund will help establish a Townscape Heritage Initiative which will have a budget of £1.35m.

With a population of just 5,000, Llandrindod Wells' bid for the regeneration money was based on its under-used potential as a centre for tourism, leisure and business.

Lets hope that we can all work together to achieve great results for the benefit of our town Michiel Blees, Llandrindod Action Team

Bidders recognised that the town's greatest asset is its status as a spa town, but that this identity is based on its historic and not its current status..

"There are many buildings in High Street that are derelict that need a lot of work on them," said Michiel Blees, co-ordinator of the Llandrindod Action team,

The action plan served as a blueprint of the strategy taken on by Powys Council, who made the bid for the regeneration funds.

"Lets hope that we can all work together to achieve great results for the benefit of our town."

Mr Blees said that while working on the fabric of the buildings was important, it was also vital that an use is found for them once they are renovated.

"Although there has already been some improvement work done at Station Crescent and Middleton Street. the regeneration process needs to include the rest of the town."

A young girls takes the waters in Llandrindod Wells' heyday

The money will be supported by a wider programme of regeneration projects which will be prepared by Powys Council and the Welsh Development Agency (WDA).

They include developing the town's role as a tourism hub for exploring mid Wales.

"A vibrant environment is critical for the success of any community, particularly to attract new investment and employment opportunities," said John Williams, the WDA's Head of Regional Development.